At first glance on a world map, the islands that make up the Virgin Islands chain are difficult to distinguish from one another. What is a US territory? What is a British island? Where do I need a passport? All good questions, but it’s not really the most important question to ask yourself when choosing the island you want to visit. The real question is what kind of atmosphere, vibe and experience do you want to have? Despite their proximity to each other, they are dramatically different. Deciding what type of trip you want to have in advance is the key to choosing which islands to visit in the VI chain.
Planning ahead is always good, and half as fun, so take a little time to do your research. A few hours online will help you find the perfect Virgin Island for you.
It is also important to note that the US and UK VIs vary in characteristics, and knowing the differences is critical. For example, a remote British unspoiled island may not be as attractive to an avid golfer looking for an 18-hole course as it would be to a young couple looking for a romantic getaway.
US Virgin Islands vs. BVI
The difference in American and British cultures and lifestyles is evident in the imprint they have left on the Virgin Islands. The US Virgin Islands, with the exception of St. John, offer the family hustle and bustle of the continental United States, including shopping malls, restaurants, high-end boutiques, and fast food chains. In contrast, the British Virgin Islands are more relaxed and much less commercial. Except for a few luxurious hotels and resorts, they have somehow managed to maintain the rustic appeal of the Caribbean.
If you are interested in shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and the hotel scene; With a little love of the sun and snorkeling aside, the US Virgin Islands, particularly St. Thomas and St. Croix, is your destination. However, St. John is very different: it shares the laid-back, laid-back vibe found in most of the British Virgin Islands, but is still a US territory. There are no chain stores, no large shopping malls, or expanding developments. In fact, only around 5,000 lucky suns call this place home. Thanks in large part to millionaire mogul Laurance Rockefeller, who once owned a large chunk of the island and donated it to the National Park Service, the island is protected from growth and commercialization but is still very close to St. Thomas. , about 8 minutes. boat.
The British Virgin Islands runs the gammet, from incomparable luxury to total seclusion. Tortola, being the most populated island, still has limited shopping, nightlife, and restaurants compared to the main US Virgin Islands. It is more of a destination for boaters and yachts, which is why it has been aptly dubbed the “Capital of Caribbean Cruises.” On Virgin Gorda, Peter Island and Scrub Island, you will find luxury resorts. On islands like Jost Van Dyke and Anegada you will find laid-back beach bars, restaurants and attractive more local accommodations.
The US and Great Britain VIs included about 60 islands combined. If you plan ahead, have an idea of your perfect island paradise vacation, and keep in mind that each island has its own unique personality, you will find the idyllic Virgin Islands for your perfect island paradise vacation.
